Brunner à Tientsin et à La Chaux de Fonds

• gilt duplex movement finely chased and engraved with foliate decoration, diamond endstone • yellow gold cuvette • white enamel dial, Roman numerals, gold spoon hands • open-faced case, the back with polychrome enamel scene depicting a mandolin player with a noblewoman, possibly Lucrezia Borgia, followed by a bearded gentleman and a young page holding a crown on a cushion, both the bezels and the bow set with pearls,  movement signed  Brunner à Tientsin et à La Chaux de Fonds no 1509, case numbered 1509

The movement is running at the time of cataloguing, however it might benefit from a service in the near future. Dial in good condition. Some dust to the glass. Polychrome enamel panel in very good condition. Case with light scuffs from wear. Overall condition is very good. To further enhance its exclusivity and desirability, the present watch is preserved in lovely condition. Experienced collectors, familiar with the international auction market, are well aware how rare the unexpected arrival of such a fine watch on public stage has become. This example qualifies as one of the most desirable timepieces from the XIXth century golden era of enamel production. This important watch will become a celebrated trophy for a distinguished collection.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

With a winding key.

Timepieces have been popular gifts in China for many Centuries, as they are emblems of gratitude and friendship, and are synonymous power or status. Quality enamel, like the beautiful enamel scene we have on this watch, was of great importance for these highly decorative pieces.
This piece is a fine example of a later production series of Chinese market watches made during the late 19th century. This watch qualifies as one of the most desirable timepieces from the XIXth century golden era of enamel production.